Apple iPad 9.7 (2017) Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

The Apple iPad 9.7 (2017) is a budget-friendly tablet that offers a premium spec and top-of-the-range features at a lower price. It is an upgrade from the iPad Air 2, with a beautiful 9.7-inch screen and an easy-to-hold design. While it may not be the most innovative product from Apple, it provides excellent value for its price. The tablet runs on iOS 10.3, upgradable to iPadOS 16.6.1, and is powered by the Apple A9 chipset. It comes with 2GB of RAM and is available in 32GB and 128GB storage options.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the iPad 9.7 (2017) is similar to previous iPads, with a sleek and elegant look. It features a glass front, aluminum back, and aluminum frame, which gives it a premium feel. The tablet is 7.5mm thick and weighs 469g, making it easy to hold in the hand. It is available in three color options: Silver, Gold, and Space Gray. The iPad 9.7 (2017) has a 9.7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels, providing a sharp and vibrant visual experience. The screen is protected by scratch-resistant glass with an oleophobic coating to prevent smudges and fingerprints.

Display

The iPad 9.7 (2017) features a 9.7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels. The screen offers a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is perfect for reading, web browsing, and productivity tasks. The display is bright, sharp, and vibrant, providing excellent color reproduction and viewing angles. However, it lacks some of the advanced features found on higher-end iPad models, such as True Tone technology and laminated display. Despite that, the display on the iPad 9.7 (2017) is still impressive and suitable for most multimedia and productivity needs.

Performance

The iPad 9.7 (2017) is powered by the Apple A9 chipset, which is a dual-core 1.84 GHz (Twister) CPU and PowerVR GT7600 (six-core graphics) GPU. While it may not be the latest and most powerful chipset from Apple, it still delivers smooth and reliable performance for everyday tasks. The tablet handles multitasking, web browsing, and media consumption with ease. However, it may struggle with more demanding applications and games compared to newer iPad models with more powerful processors. Overall, the performance of the iPad 9.7 (2017) is satisfactory for its price range.

Software and User Interface

The iPad 9.7 (2017) runs on iOS 10.3, which can be upgraded to the latest iPadOS 16.6.1. The software provides a user-friendly and intuitive interface, allowing users to navigate through various apps and features seamlessly. With iPadOS, users can take advantage of multitasking features like Split View and Slide Over, making it easier to work on multiple apps simultaneously. The tablet also supports Apple Pencil, allowing for precise and accurate input for drawing and note-taking. Overall, the software on the iPad 9.7 (2017) provides a smooth and enjoyable user experience.

Camera

The iPad 9.7 (2017) features an 8 MP rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture. While it may not be the best camera on a tablet, it still captures decent photos with good detail and color accuracy in well-lit conditions. The camera also supports HDR mode, which helps to improve dynamic range in high-contrast scenes. It can record videos in 1080p at 30fps, with the option for 720p at 120fps for slow-motion videos. The front-facing camera is a 1.2 MP shooter with an f/2.2 aperture, suitable for video calls and selfies. Overall, the cameras on the iPad 9.7 (2017) are sufficient for casual photography and video recording.

Battery Life

The iPad 9.7 (2017) is equipped with a non-removable Li-Po 8827 mAh battery, which provides decent battery life for everyday use. The tablet can last up to 10 hours of multimedia usage, allowing users to enjoy movies, games, and web browsing without worrying about frequent recharging. The battery life may vary depending on usage and settings, but overall, it is reliable and sufficient for most users' needs.

Connectivity and Networking

The iPad 9.7 (2017) offers various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac for fast and stable wireless internet connection. It also supports Bluetooth 4.2 for easy pairing with compatible devices like headphones and speakers. The tablet comes in two versions: Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular. The Wi-Fi + Cellular model includes GPS and GLONASS positioning, allowing for accurate location tracking. However, it does not support NFC or radio. The iPad 9.7 (2017) also features a Lightning port for charging and data transfer.

Additional Features

Comparison with Other Related Phones

Compared to other iPads, the iPad 9.7 (2017) sits between the iPad Pro and the iPad mini 4 in terms of features and specifications. It offers a more budget-friendly option for those who do not require the advanced features of the iPad Pro, such as Apple Pencil support and a laminated display. While it may not have the latest and most powerful chipset like the newer iPad models, it still provides satisfactory performance for everyday use. It is a suitable choice for users who prioritize affordability and a larger screen size compared to the iPad mini 4.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

The Apple iPad 9.7 (2017) offers excellent value for its price, providing a premium spec and top-of-the-range features at a more affordable cost. While it may not have the latest and most powerful chipset, it still delivers satisfactory performance for everyday tasks. The 9.7-inch screen is beautiful and vibrant, perfect for multimedia consumption and productivity. The tablet's design is sleek and easy to hold, making it comfortable for extended use. Overall, the iPad 9.7 (2017) is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly iPad without compromising on quality and functionality.